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Encarnacion running more this season

Encarnacion running more this season

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Edwin Encarnacion

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TORONTO -- Edwin Encarnacion isn't exactly known for his speed. But so far this season, it has become an asset on the basepaths.

Encarnacion, who stole a pair of bases against the Angels on Friday night, has now tied a career high with eight on the year. It's a mark he reached twice previously, but should easily exceed this season.

"Edwin is one of our better baserunners because of his ability to get a feel for a pitcher," Blue Jays manager John Farrell said.

"I thought at the end of [last] year, he was running really well. He came into Spring Training in great shape, and getting to know him over the course of last
year, his instincts and his baserunning capability are good. You don't look at the body type of being a big strong guy and think he is a basestealer. But instinctually, he can capitalize on some opportunities."

One of the main reasons for Encarnacion's increase in activity on the basepaths can be directly tied to his work in the offseason. Encarnacion spent time with Robinson Cano in the Dominican Republic and reshaped his body to
improve his overall mobility.

That work is also paying off at the plate, where Encarnacion entered play on Saturday hitting .289 with 22 home runs and 55 RBIs in 74 games.